Description:

A local N.J. family controlling a diverse portfolio of multi-family properties hired SKAPC for the renovation of Mansion House Apartments in Tulsa, Okla., where occupancy rates had tumbled to 60 percent. As a Midwest native and with connections in Tulsa, Steven Kratchman teamed up with a local architect to sign and seal SKAPC’s completed drawings, as well as work with the general contractor as a sub-consultant to that firm.

Mansion House is comprised of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes with magnificent views of Tulsa’s skyline and the Arkansas River. Designed in a 1970s “semi-brutalist,” concrete modern style, Mansion House had been left virtually unchanged and was specializing in rentals for seniors. The renovation project focused on updating the property to cater to the needs of a broad variety of residents, modernizing the amenity spaces, creating curb appeal and increasing the value of the property as a whole.

After study and feasibility work, SKAPC proposed converting the rear-yard entry into a park-like setting, replacing lower-level retail with amenity spaces and relocating the mail boxes to a new, open configuration in the lobby. SKPAC’s design also included cladding the concrete with natural wood finishes, installing new porcelain stone flooring throughout, and adding new lighting and ceilings, as well as super-modern classic furniture.

The scope of work included the lobby and amenity area renovation, consisting of a renovated sitting area, coffee bar, management offices, gymnasium, restrooms, theater, library and social room, and elevator lobby area. Additional interior work was completed, as well.

The facility is close to 100% occupied, and the tenants adore the furniture and the vastly upgraded “hip” look. Management appreciates the open-concept mail area as they have the added functionality of being able to check in on elderly tenants if they do not regularly see them picking up their mail.